The Sounders have taken defenders with their top two picks in the 2014 MLS SuperDraft, selecting Louisville center back Jimmy Ockford with the No. 21 overall pick in the second round.

Pretty clear Seattle wanted to get younger on defense.

Ockford, 21, is from the Philadelphia area, so he had a cheering section of friends and family in attendance.

“It’s unbelievable,” he said of being drafted, noting he’s worked his whole life for this moment.

It says Ockford is a “talented rapper” in his player bio. That void has obviously been left by Steve Zakuani, and Ockford, while rusty, said he would partake in a rap battle if called upon.

Here is a link to Ockford’s highlight reel, and posted below is a piece on the defender when he was at Mount St. Mary’s:

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JIMMY OCKFORD

(Being drafted has to be every kid’s dream. What does this feel like right now?) “It’s unbelievable. It’s crazy just to think I’ve been working towards this my whole life. I’ve dedicated my life to soccer and the hard work and dedication I put into it, it’s just great that it showed and I got great results from it.”

(Did you have family with you at the draft?) “I am from the Philadelphia area, so my whole family was here. My friends, they were here supporting me. It was great that they were here and were that loud for me. It really made for a nice present.”

(What do you know about the Sounders?) “I know it’s a great soccer city and the fans are really dedicated. A lot of fans every game will come out—40,000, which is amazing—and it’s just great to see that in the United States now.”

(How would you describe your playing style?) “I’m hoping I can be a good physical presence coming in. I know there will be a lot of bigger guys, but if I keep working towards that, I think I can do well there. I’ve played midfield and forward, so I’m good with my feet. I feel comfortable in the back with my feet. I’m good in the air, and on set pieces I’ve scored a few goals off corners and free kicks, so I’m looking to score a few goals.”

(Did you have any contact with the Sounders before the MLS combine? Did you go to the Las Vegas combine?) “Before the combine, I actually got invited to the Sounders invitational combine in Las Vegas, but I did not attend that because of the MLS combine, so obviously I was looking forward to that. I’d heard good feedback from my two coaches, Ken (Lolla) and Mario (Sanchez), who were in contact with the Sounders. They said nothing but good things — that I’ve heard. I met with (the Sounders) at the combine, which was good, too. They said they liked the way I play and they like who I am. So I’m excited.”

(You’re listed as a talented rapper in your player profile. Is that accurate?) “It’s been a while, but we’ll see what happens with that. Maybe a little rusty.”

(So will there be any rap battle in training camp?) “If I have to, why not?”